Homeless outreach hub 69a to close Elliot Street site in December

69A, a volunteer‑run support space for people experiencing homelessness, will close its Elliot Street location on December 6 or earlier after losing its lease, according to organizers. The group said it is searching for a new site and, if a move is not possible in time, plans to shift to car‑based outreach to maintain services.

A co‑coordinator who identified herself as Lisa and asked that her last name not be used because she is fleeing domestic violence said operations will continue in the field — including visits to campsites, community meetings and advocacy efforts. Visitors typically seek food, basic supplies, clothing, blankets, sleeping bags, tents and a warm place to gather, organizers said.

Building owner Ashok Kumar and Katie Balcher, who rents the space for 69A with her husband, could not be reached Thursday. Volunteer Caitlin Baucom said the group has faced difficulty securing a new lease, citing reluctance among some commercial landlords despite the organization’s ability to pay.

Organizers described an ongoing shortage of winter shelter beds. They pointed to Groundworks Collaborative’s approximately 40 beds and noted that the Beloved Shelter at Beloved Community Church and the Winston Prouty Center for Child and Family Development also plan to provide space this winter. Lisa estimated at least 200 people are currently living outdoors after exhausting the state’s 80‑day emergency motel program. She said 69A has helped participants connect with employment, housing, substance‑use treatment and legal assistance. The group continues to accept donations as cold weather sets in.

Community members have been encouraged to show support for 69A during an upcoming Select Board meeting. The site drew criticism at an August board session from residents who described it as a problematic approach to homelessness, pointing to drug use and occasional altercations in a retail area since programming began in January.

Select Board member Isaac Evans‑Frantz said he has attended meetings at 69A and relays needs raised there back to town officials. He characterized the organization as an important resource, urged anyone with potential rental space to contact coordinators, and framed local poverty and housing instability as policy outcomes. He said he is asking for agenda items to review how no‑trespass orders are issued in public spaces and the town’s approach to dismantling homeless encampments, with an emphasis on reducing harm and improving safety.